Last update on 2021-10-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
A rowing machine is a piece of fitness equipment that you can buy for your home or a gym. It simulates being in a real-life boat, but without all the hassle of buying a kayak and heading to the water.
There are many different types of rowers for sale, with many offering various kinds of resistance. The quality of the rowing machine can also dictate whether or not it’s suitable for a gym or home. Keep reading to learn more about the available options, and see which type meets the mark for your needs.
1. SereneLife Air and Magnetic Rowing Machine
If you’re looking for a competitively priced and smooth rowing machine, then you’ll get all that and more from SereneLife. This machine with a one-year warranty and plenty of features stands out from the crowd.
It’s of an air and magnetic style with steel metal alloy and ABS, and it holds up to 250 pounds of weight. When you row, it’s smooth and effective. People also enjoy the monitor that comes with it, as well as the eight adjustable resistance levels.
However, it’s not without flaws. Some people say the foam grips slide around and that the monitor can stop working. Otherwise, it’s bound to provide an ideal workout in your home.
Product Features
- Air and magnetic style
- Steel metal alloy construction
- Engineered ABS plastic
- 250-pound weight limit
- Eight adjustable resistance levels
- One-year warranty
- Display monitor
Pros
- You can change the adjustment
- Premium materials
- Affordable to buy
- It comes with a warranty
- It’s easy to use
- Straightforward to set up
Cons
- The foam grips slide around
- The display monitor can stop working
2. Circuit Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
Even though this rowing machine is not perfect, that doesn’t mean many people won’t enjoy the workout they get when they use it. It’s easy to transport thanks to its wheels and foldable design, and it also has variable resistance settings.
People like the robustness of the steel and aluminum materials, not to mention the screen that lets you track your workout. It’s also competitively priced and comes with adjustable foot straps and comfortable handlebars.
These handlebars are thought to be quite short people, and the monitor is not of the best quality. Still, there are plenty of other strong points that will make you see this rower machine is worth its weight in gold.
Product Features
- Foldable design
- Steel and aluminum construction
- Variable resistance settings
- Transport wheels
- Injection-molded seat
- Screen panel
Pros
- You can adjust the foot straps
- Comfortable handlebars
- The seat is comfortable
- You can change the resistance levels
- The screen keeps track of your workout
- Competitive price tag
- You can fold it for storage
Cons
- The handlebars are too short for tall people
- The monitor is not the best quality
3. Marcy Foldable Rowing Machine
It can be hard to find an affordable rowing machine that’s both comfortable and well made, but this one from Marcy meets the mark. While the instructions aren’t the best and some parts aren’t well made, it’s otherwise an ideal machine.
It has transport wheels and a folding design, not to mention a competitive price tag. What’s more, it’s a pleasure to use. The foot straps are adjustable, and it has a multi-angle monitor to track your progress. The seat is also comfortable, and you can move it around easily. This rowing machine from Marcy could be the next best exercise purchase in your household.
Product Features
- Transport wheels
- Eight magnetic resistance levels
- Two color options
- Multi-angle monitor
- Adjustable foot straps
- Foldable design
- Magnetic style
Pros
- It’s affordable to buy
- You can change the resistance
- Comfortable seat
- It has a monitor for tracking your workout
- You can pick a color
- You can move it around easily
Cons
- The instructions aren’t the best
- Some parts are of inferior quality
4. Generies Bluetooth Water Rowing Machine
This rowing machine may have an expensive price tag, but you can’t help but want to buy it anyway. If you’re on the hunt for a machine that will provide an authentic rowing experience, then this machine is it.
It’s a water rower, which means it uses real water to offer resistance. You can also adjust the resistance to one of several levels. People adore being able to feel like they are really rowing on a lake or river. But that’s not even the best part. Thanks to Bluetooth connectivity, you can use this rower machine with VR. As a result, you can also view bodies of water as you row.
Unlike other rowers that have steel and plastic parts, this one is solid wood. It’s a premium product on the market that’s bound to impress any avid rowers.
Product Features
- Water rower style
- Real motion simulation
- Adjustable resistance
- VR experience
- Solid wood construction
- App use
- Bluetooth connectivity
Pros
- It features premium materials
- It’s as close to rowing on real water as you can get
- You can turn it into a VR experience
- You can adjust the resistance
- It syncs to an app
Cons
- Expensive to buy
5. Chennao Adjustable Resistance Rowing Machine
Anyone tiring of doing their same old workout routines may like to invest in this rowing machine from Chennao. It’s of a magnetic style and steel materials and is all about convenience and effectiveness.
It’s well made with a spiral damper to control airflow, and it even comes with wheels. Therefore, you can move it around your home to get it into the best position to work out. People also like how affordable this rower is, not to mention the comfortable rubber seat. It also comes with an app so that you can track your progress.
Sure, it’s a bit tricky to assemble, but once it’s up, you’re bound to enjoy a meaningful workout. Check it out for yourself, and you may see that it can take your workout to a new level.
Product Features
- Magnetic style
- Airflow spiral damper
- Steel construction
- Intelligent sports show app
- 3D rubber seat cushion
- Transport wheels
- Foldable design
Pros
- It’s comfortable to use
- It comes with an app
- Competitive price tag
- Premium materials
- It’s robust and solid
Cons
- It can be tricky to assemble
6. Chennao Folding Rowing Machine
If you want to add a new type of exercise to your workout, then this rowing machine from Chennao might meet the mark. It’s a foldable, easy-to-transport rower that can offer no end of convenience to the average person.
You can fold it up when you’re not using it, move it around on wheels, and set it up even in small rooms. People also like how you can change the resistance and how smooth the internal flywheel is. The rubber seat and foam handles are comfortable, as well.
The instructions for this rower may be a little vague, but it’s otherwise a standout option for any fitness enthusiast.
Product Features
- Foldable design
- Internal flywheel
- Variable resistance
- Foam handles
- Rubber seat
- Wheels for transport
Pros
- It’s lightweight and easy to move
- You can store it away with ease
- It promotes a smooth workout experience
- You can change the resistance level
- The seat and handlebars are comfortable
Cons
- Vague instructions
7. Life Fitness Trainer
If you don’t mind spending a lot on a rowing machine, as long as it’s a premium model, then check out the offerings from Life Fitness. This rower is as authentic as it gets when it comes to experiencing a real-life rowing activity.
It uses water to offer resistance, and you can also adjust the resistance to one of four levels. Unlike other rowers that feature steel and plastic, this one has natural wood partnered with tempered steel. It’s both elegant and functional.
This seven-foot-tall rowing machine is as high-quality as rowers get, so why not check it out? Sure, it’s a bit more expensive than others, but it will show you that it’s worth every penny.
Product Features
- Natural wood construction
- Tempered steel
- Four resistance levels
- Fluid technology resistance system
- Seven feet tall
Pros
- It features premium materials
- You can adjust the resistance level
- It offers an authentic style of rowing with water
- It’s far different than most other rowers
- It’s comfortable to use
Cons
- Expensive to buy
8. Chennao Rowing Machine
If you have been looking for a comfortable, affordable, and easy to use rowing machine, then this one from Chennao has all the makings of just that. It’s a rower with a metal frame, padded seat, and non-slip handlebars.
People also appreciate the addition of a dozen resistance levels, not to mention a console that tracks your progress. You can also use this rower if you weigh up to 220 pounds, which is a generous weight capacity.
Even though the console can be a little finicky, you can get great enjoyment out of being able to work out your entire body. This rower means business.
Product Features
- Metal frame
- 220-pound weight capacity
- LCD console
- Padded seat
- Non-slip handlebars
- 12 resistance levels
Pros
- The seat is comfortable
- Your hands don’t slip off the handlebars
- You can change the resistance levels
- Generous weight capacity
- It works out your whole body
- Easy to transport
- Competitive price tag
Cons
- The console can be finicky to use
9. Chennao Water Rowing Machine
Trying to find a rowing machine that isn’t bulky and heavy can be quite challenging, which is why many people like this machine from Chennao. Not only does it provide an excellent workout, but it’s a lightweight and agile machine.
When you’re not using it, you can move it around on its built-in wheels and fold it up. Then, when you put it to work, you can change the resistance levels to one of eight. Enjoy the comfort of the padded seat, and the convenience of the velcro foot straps. People also like the multi-function console, which allows you to track your workout.
The console is a bit tricky to use for some people, but it’s hard not to see this rowing machine as a worthwhile purchase. Allow it to take your workout to the next level – all without breaking the bank.
Product Features
- Foldable
- Built-in wheels
- Eight magnetic resistance levels
- Padded seat
- Velcro foot straps
- Multi-function console
Pros
- It’s easy to move around
- It’s comfortable
- You can change the resistance levels
- It’s easy to store
- Competitive price tag
- The seat has plenty of padding
Cons
- The console can be tricky to use
10. Chennao Space-Saving Rowing Machine
Even though this rowing machine from Chennao can be quite hard to move around, most people look past this point. Especially when they realize there are many standout features on offer. This air-resistance chain drive rower comes packed full of helpful features to take your workout to the next level.
The polyurethane seat is comfortable to sit on, and the PVC footplates come fitted with adjustable velcro straps. The footplates are also larger on this machine than many others. The 220-pound weight limit is another standout feature that people appreciate.
The best part is, this rower doesn’t break the bank. Check out all its features and see if it’s the best option for you.
Product Features
- Air-resistance chain drive style
- Polyurethane seat
- Lower seat guide rollers
- PVC footplates
- Two-position mount
- Adjustable velcro foot straps
- 220-pound weight limit
- Three-screen monitor
Pros
- It’s packed full of convenient features
- Competitive price tag
- The foot areas are larger than many other rowers
- It provides a smooth rowing experience
- Generous weight limit
- The monitor has six functions
Cons
- It’s heavy to move around
Considerations for Purchasing a Rowing Machine
Even though you now have a better idea of what types of rowers you can buy, that doesn’t mean the purchasing process is any easier. You have to think about things you need versus what some rowers have to offer. Before you get out your wallet, it might be worth thinking about the following points.
The Price Tag
The price tag of a rower can be an essential consideration in the purchasing process. Often, the price can offer insight into the quality of the rower, and whether or not it would suit gym or home use.
Often, you spend more for a better form of resistance. For example, an air or magnetic rower tends to be more affordable than one that uses water. The materials used in its construction can also determine its price tag. A rowing machine featuring wood is going to be more expensive than one with steel and plastic.
Think about your top dollar. You can then decide whether you prefer to spend as little as possible, or if you can pay more for a higher quality product.
The Size
The size of the rower you’re looking at can determine which one you buy. If you only have a small space to put it, then you need to pay close attention to the measurements provided by the manufacturer. If the size doesn’t matter, then you can get away with buying a bigger one.
Typically, the larger the rowing machine, the more grunt it has, and the stronger it is. Unfortunately, this can often mean you spend more, as well.
The Weight Capacity
Some people buy rowing machines to lose weight, while others buy them for strength and fitness. Whatever your reason, it’s essential to look at the weight capacity. Every rower is different, which means they will also have different weight limits.
Some of the lower-end models, which tend to be quite affordable, have a weight capacity of about 220 pounds (100kg). The more you pay, and the larger the machine, the more generous the weight capacity tends to be.
Don’t skip this point when you’re looking for a new rower. Otherwise, you can end up with a machine that can’t handle your weight and ends up being dangerous to use.
Rowing Machine Type
Believe it or not, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to buying a rowing machine. They are all different and are even made differently. There are four primary types of rowers: hydraulic piston rowers, magnetic rowers, air resistance rowers, and water rowers.
Hydraulic Piston Rowers
Hydraulic piston rowers have two hydraulic pistons. When you pull the handles, it’s the pistons against fluid or air that create the much-needed resistance. You can also set the resistance level to suit your needs. This type of rower tends to be one of the least expensive ones on the market. They are also small, compact, and portable – more so than several others.
Magnetic Rowers
Magnetic rowers are another popular option. They, like hydraulic piston rowers, are quite affordable to purchase. They create resistance by having electromagnets near the flywheel. The force you apply by rowing allows power to flow through the magnets and create resistance.
Sometimes, these models have adjustable arms and seats. They don’t tend to be foldable, which can be a sticking point for people with limited space.
Air Resistance Rowers
Air resistance rowers are popular with many people looking to get fit, lose weight, and build strength. The harder and more intensely you row, the more extreme the resistance. These machines have a spinning flywheel that generates airflow. They tend to be quite noisy to use, but they are quite similar in resistance to what you would face when rowing on water. As a result, people do tend to prefer them over other options.
Water Rowers
Water rowers are by far one of the most expensive rowing machines on the market. However, they tend to be quite desirable, given that they use water to help you row. As a result, they are the closest to real rowing that you will get.
The only thing that people don’t like about this type of rower is how heavy it is. That, and the price tag which is higher than most other rowers. Still, it’s hard to beat a real rowing experience without having to go to a body of water like a river or lake.
The Console
The console can also play a considerable role in which rower you buy. Consoles allow you to track your workout in many ways. Most consoles show the time, speed, how far you have rowed, and how many strokes you have taken. Some of the more complex consoles even let you “race” against your previous times to show improvement over time.
Not every rowing machine for sale will have a console. For example, hydraulic ones don’t tend to have them. Decide whether having a console or not is a deal-breaker.
Warranty Period
It can be quite stressful parting with your hard-earned money. Especially when you’re not sure if it’s the right decision or not. Thankfully, several manufacturers offer a warranty for peace of mind. Lower-end rowing machines tend to come with one-year warranties.
However, the more you spend, sometimes the more generous the warranty. For example, some rowers might come with parts warranties of around two years, but a lifetime frame warranty. Read through the fine print to establish the warranty period for the machine you’re thinking about buying.
Why Buy a Rowing Machine?
Given the sheer volume of exercise equipment for sale, you might be wondering why a rower machine is an ideal option for you. There are several ways this machine stands out from the crowd.
They promote weight loss. That’s an essential first point. For around an hour of effort, you can burn up to 1,200 calories. They also promote good cardiovascular health. Any form of aerobic fitness can provide much-needed oxygen to your heart. Around 30 minutes per day is all you need.
Given that it doesn’t put stress on too many parts of the body, it’s suitable for people who struggle with aches and pains. You can also work out several parts of your body, like your abs, arms, legs, and overall core.
Rowing machines also suit people in the over 50 age category. You can even use a rower machine if you have osteoporosis or arthritis. As a result, you may find that many health professionals recommend a rower for keeping you fit and healthy as you age.
Given how affordable rowers can be, there’s every reason to purchase one and experience all these benefits for yourself.
